We all wish to lose weight faster and hit our weight loss goals soon. However, rapid weight loss may seem exciting, but it may increase your chance of paralysis in the limbs. Slimmer’s paralysis is a neurological condition that arises due to prolonged nutritional deficiency, resulting in nerve damage and muscle weakness. It is commonly associated with excessive dieting, post-bariatric surgery complications, or malabsorption syndromes. The primary cause is a deficiency in essential nutrients, particularly B vitamins, which play an important role in nerve function.
According to Dr. Aparna Gupta, Consultant Neurologist, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, “Slimmer’s paralysis is a rare condition that can happen as there is a loss of protective fat around the knee, which can further affect the peroneal nerve in the body. This is the nerve that runs along the outer region of the leg. The peroneal nerve is the one that causes motion and sensation in the lower leg and the foot. This causes a reaction called foot drop.”
How does rapid weight loss affect the lower limbs?
A significant reduction in calorie intake can lead to inadequate levels of vitamins B1 (thiamine), B6, and B12. These vitamins are essential for nerve function and muscle coordination. A deficiency can cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to weakness and paralysis. Rapid weight loss often results in muscle atrophy, especially in the lower limbs, as the body consumes muscle protein for energy in the absence of adequate caloric intake.
According to Dr. Apurva Sharma, Consultant – Neurology, Manipal Hospital Gurugram, “Rapid loss of weight affects the metabolism, which makes it difficult for the body to adapt to sudden changes. There are other potential causes of a foot drop, including metabolic disorders, autoimmune diseases, surgical complications, and so on. If the foot drop occurs after a sudden loss in weight, then this combination of occurrence leads to a possibility of Slimmer’s paralysis. Due to this, one needs to monitor their weight and seek medical attention in the case of rapid weight loss.”
Some other reasons that can cause rapid weight loss are—
1. Gallbladder stones: These occur in 15-25 percent of the population. Gallstones can cause one to lose a heavy amount of weight as they lead to disruption in nutrient absorption and slow down the speed of fat digestion in the body. As the body is unable to utilize its calories, it can lead to weight loss.
2. Malnutrition: It can be caused by a lack of protein and deficiency of nutrients. The lack of nutrients can be due to a shortage of essential vitamins in the body. All of this can cause rapid loss of weight in the body.
3. Electrolyte Imbalance: With the loss of weight, the level of electrolytes in the body can become imbalanced, especially with minerals like magnesium, sodium, and potassium. Due to this, the functioning of the muscles and nerves can be compromised and cause cramps and weakness in the muscles.
What are the treatment options?
Nutritional Rehabilitation: Supplementing with vitamins B1, B6, and B12, as well as ensuring adequate protein and calorie intake.
Physical Therapy: To regain muscle strength and mobility through targeted exercises.
Medications: Neuropathic pain relievers may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms.
Surgical Intervention: In severe cases where nerve compression contributes significantly to paralysis, surgical decompression may be required. Peripheral nerve decompression surgery involves relieving pressure on affected nerves, particularly in areas like the tibial or peroneal nerves. Surgical treatments include nerve repair (reattaching the two ends of a damaged nerve), nerve graft (a graft attaching to the nerve that is to be repaired), and nerve transplant (transfer of nerve tissue).
Apart from this, non-surgical methods include massage therapy, acupuncture, medication, weight loss management, physical therapy, and others. It is crucial to keep in check one’s diet and routine of exercising. In the case of extensive gym use causing rapid weight loss, one needs to seek medical attention and be aware of the extremities.